48. Kentucky Basketball Best Players of Alltime

The University of Kentucky men’s basketball program is renowned for its excellence, with an impressive history and record that rivals even the most successful collegiate teams. The Wildcats have been competing since 1903, and their success has only grown ever since then.

With 59 NCAA tournament appearances under their belt, they are the winningest college basketball team in terms of all-time winning percentage (.765). Led by head coach John Calipari and a talented roster of players every season, the Kentucky Wildcats continue to set new standards in college basketball year after year.

1. Bam Adebayo

Center

Career

• NBA All-Star (2020)
• 3× NBA All-Defensive Second Team (2020–2022)
• Second-team All-SEC (2017)
• SEC All-Freshman team (2017)
• McDonald's All-American (2016)
• North Carolina Mr. Basketball (2016)

Bam Adebayo is a 25-year-old center/power forward who was drafted 14th overall in the 2017 NBA Draft. Bam Adebayo played two seasons at Kentucky before being drafted by the Miami Heat in 2017.

Bam Adebayo has averaged 10 points and 7 rebounds per game over his career, making him an important part of both the Heat's frontcourt rotation as well as their postseason run in 2018. 

Bam Adebayo will be entering his fourth season with the Miami Heat next year and will look to build on his successes from last year Bam Adebayo is a center for the Miami Heat who has quickly become one of the league's top players.

Bam was drafted by the Heat with the seventh overall pick in 2016 and he has since developed into one of their most important players. He led all rookies in scoring last season, averaging 18 points and 10 rebounds per game. 

His play on both ends of the court has made him a key part of Miami's success over the past two seasons. Bam is a versatile player who can score inside or outside, making him difficult to defend no matter where he is on the court.

He will be an important part of Miami's future as they look to challenge for championships again in 2020 and 2021.

Also Played For: center basketball, fantasy basketball

2. Tyler Herro

Shooting guard

Career

• NBA Sixth Man of the Year (2022)
• NBA All-Rookie Second Team (2020)
• Second-team All-SEC (2019)
• SEC Newcomer of the Year – AP (2019)
• SEC All-Freshman Team (2019)

Tyler Herro is a shooting guard for the Miami Heat in the NBA. He was born on January 20, 2000, and attended high school at Whitnall (Greenfield, Wisconsin).

In 2018-2019 he played college basketball for Kentucky where he averaged 18 points per game and 4 rebounds per game as a junior. Tyler was drafted by the Miami Heat as the 13th overall pick in the 2019 NBA Draft.

Tyler Herro is a versatile player who can play both forward positions. He had an impressive rookie season with the Miami Heat, averaging 9.7 points and 4 rebounds per game. Tyler Herro was selected to the NBA All-Rookie Second Team in 2020 and has continued to improve each year since then.

In 2019, he became one of only two players in SEC history to record 1,000 points (1,031) and 500 rebounds (527). Tyler Herro is a hard worker on the court and always gives his all no matter what situation he's in Game 7 vs Toronto Raptors - His hustle led to him scoring 14 points off the bench.

With another great season ahead of him, Tyler Herro is sure to cement himself as one of the best sixth men in league history.

Also Played For: shooting guard, nba best young players

3. Jamal Mashburn

Career

• NBA All-Star (2003)
• All-NBA Third Team (2003)
• NBA All-Rookie First Team (1994)
• Consensus first-team All-American (1993)
• SEC Player of the Year (1993)
• SEC Athlete of the Year (1993)
• Second-team Parade All-American (1990)
• Mr. New York Basketball (1990)

Mashburn played for the Dallas Mavericks from 1993 to 2005. He is best known for his time with the Miami Heat, where he won two championships (1997 and 2000).

Mashburn also played on teams such as the Milwaukee Bucks, Atlanta Hawks, Charlotte Hornets, and Phoenix Suns during his career. Jamal Mashburn currently works as an analyst for NBA TV.

Jamal Mashburn was a highly skilled player in the NBA who helped lead two different teams to playoff appearances. He began his career as a rookie with the Charlotte Hornets and went on to be an All-Star, All-NBA Third Team member, and Mr.

New York Basketball award winner. Mashburn then played for the New Orleans Hornets for six seasons before retiring in 2005 at age 34 after missing the playoffs each year he’s been in the league.

Also Played For: dallas mavericks, new orleans pelicans

4. Pat Riley

Career

• NBA champion (1972)
• First-team All-American – USBWA (1966)
• Third-team All-American – AP, UPI (1966)
• SEC Player of the Year – AP (1966)
• No. 42 retired by Kentucky Wildcats

Riley is a retired basketball player and president of the Miami Heat. Riley played for the San Diego Rockets in 1967, then spent most of his playing career with the Boston Celtics (1976–1988).

After retiring as a player, Riley served as head coach of the Los Angeles Lakers from 1999 to 2008 before joining the Miami Heat in 2009. In 2012, he was inducted into the Basketball Hall of Fame and also received an honorary doctorate from Duke University that same year.

Riley has been married to Jeanette since 1966 and they have two children together: daughters Ayesha (born 1971) and Lauryn (born 1974). As head coach of the Lakers, Riley led them to five NBA championships in a ten-year span from 1979 to 1988. 

He is also one of only six coaches in NBA history with more than 1,000 victories as a player and coach combined.

Riley was inducted into the Basketball Hall of Fame in 2003 and the UCLA Athletic Hall of Fame in 2004.

Also Played For: miami heat

5. De'Aaron Fox

Point guard

Career

• High school: Cypress Lakes, (Katy, Texas)
• College: Kentucky (2016–2017)
• NBA draft 2017 / Round: 1 / Pick: 5th overall
• Selected by the Sacramento Kings
• Playing career: 2017–present
• 2017–present: Sacramento Kings
• First-team All-SEC (2017), SEC All-Freshman Team (2017), SEC tournament MVP (2017), McDonald's All-American (2016)

De'Aaron Fox is a Point Guard for the Sacramento Kings in the NBA. He was born on December 20, 1997, and grew up in New Orleans, Louisiana. Fox has a listed height of 6 ft 3 inches and a weight of 185 lbs which makes him very physically fit for an elite-level basketball player.

Fox attended high school at Cypress Lakes where he averaged 24 points, 7 assists, and 5 rebounds per game as a senior before being drafted by Kentucky Wildcats in the 2016-2017 season as the first overall pick after leaving college early due to an injury crisis that threatened his eligibility for NCAA Tournament.

After impressing scouts with his play during his rookie season (2016-2017), De'Aaron signed a 2-year contract extension with Sacramento Kings worth $24 million including $18 million guaranteed on November 3rd, 2017.

Fox's tremendous shooting ability combined with great court vision make him one of the most coveted point guards currently playing in the NBA league; averaging 19 PPG (47% FG) and 4 APG while leading the team to 41 wins last year.

Also Played For: sacramento kings, western conference

6. DeMarcus Cousins

Power forward

Career

• High school: John L. LeFlore (Mobile, Alabama)
• College: Kentucky (2009–2010)
• NBA draft 2010 / Round: 1 / Pick: 5th overall
• Selected by the Sacramento Kings
• Playing career: 2010–present
• 2010–2017: Sacramento Kings
• 2017–2018: New Orleans Pelicans
• 2018–2019: Golden State Warriors
• 2020–2021: Houston Rockets
• 2021: Los Angeles Clippers
• 2021–2022: Milwaukee Bucks
• 2022: Denver Nuggets
• 4× NBA All-Star (2015–2018), 2× All-NBA Second Team (2015, 2016), NBA All-Rookie First Team (2011), Consensus second-team All-American (2010), First-team All-SEC (2010), SEC Rookie of the Year (2010), SEC All-Rookie Team (2010), McDonald's All-American (2009), First-team Parade All-American (2009)
• Medals, , Men's basketball, Representing the  United States, Olympic Games, : 2016 Rio de Janeiro: Team, World Cup, : 2014 Spain: Team
• Men's basketball
• Representing the  United States
• Olympic Games
• : 2016 Rio de Janeiro: Team
• World Cup
• : 2014 Spain: Team

Cousins was selected fifth overall in the 2010 NBA draft by the Sacramento Kings. In his first season with the Kings, Cousins won rookie of the year honors.

After two seasons with Sacramento, Cousins was traded to New Orleans Pelicans in 2013. With New Orleans, Cousins helped them make it to the playoffs each of his three years there before being traded again in 2017 to Golden State Warriors where he has since played out the rest of his career.

Cousins was drafted with the fifth overall pick in the 2010 NBA draft by the Sacramento Kings. Cousins has played for five teams in his eight-year career, including three seasons with the New Orleans Pelicans. 

In 2016, he was traded to the Golden State Warriors and helped them win their first championship since 1974.

He is a two-time All-Star and won an MVP award in 2017 with Golden State. Cousins will be a free agent this offseason and there are reports that he is interested in returning to the Warriors.

Also Played For: nba 2k19, nba 2k18

7. Malik Monk

Shooting guard

Career

• High school: , East Poinsett, (Lepanto, Arkansas), Bentonville, (Bentonville, Arkansas)
• College: Kentucky (2016–2017)
• NBA draft 2017 / Round: 1 / Pick: 11th overall
• Selected by the Charlotte Hornets
• Playing career: 2017–present
• 2017–2021: Charlotte Hornets
• 2017: →Greensboro Swarm
• 2021–2022: Los Angeles Lakers
• 2022–present: Sacramento Kings
• Consensus second-team All-American (2017), Jerry West Award (2017), SEC Player of the Year – AP (2017), First-team All-SEC (2017), SEC Freshman of The Year (2017), SEC All-Freshman Team (2017), McDonald's All-American (2016), Mr. Basketball of Arkansas (2016)

Malik Monk is an American shooting guard who was drafted 11th overall by the Los Angeles Lakers in the 2017 NBA draft. He played college basketball for Kentucky, where he averaged 19.5 points, 4 rebounds, and 3 assists per game as a junior in the 2016-2017 season.

Monk has been praised for his skills with both feet and his three-point shooting ability, which led him to be dubbed "The Malik Monk of Two Feet." 

In March 2018, he signed a multiyear contract with the Lakers that will keep him with the team through the 2021-2022 season Malik Monk, a 2017 second-team. All-American and SEC Player of the Year, was selected by the Charlotte Hornets as the ninth overall pick in the 2017 NBA draft.

Monk played three seasons at Kentucky where he averaged 17 points per game and 4 assists per game as a freshman. In his first season with the Greensboro Swarm of the G League, Monk averaged 21 points and 5 assists while shooting 44% from three-point range. 

After being traded to Sacramento Kings in February 2020, Malik has started all 45 games for them and is averaging 19 points (on 46% shooting), 3 rebounds and 2 steals per game.

8. Trey Lyles

Forward

Career

• High school: Arsenal Tech (Indianapolis, Indiana)
• College: Kentucky (2014–2015)
• NBA draft 2015 / Round: 1 / Pick: 12th overall
• Selected by the Utah Jazz
• Playing career: 2015–present
• 2015–2017: Utah Jazz
• 2017–2019: Denver Nuggets
• 2019–2021: San Antonio Spurs
• 2021–2022: Detroit Pistons
• 2022–present: Sacramento Kings
• SEC All-Freshman Team (2015), McDonald's All-American (2014), First-team Parade All-American (2014), Indiana Mr. Basketball (2014)

Trey Lyles was a high school All-American player at Arsenal Tech in Indianapolis. He played one season for Kentucky before being drafted by the Utah Jazz in the 2015 NBA draft.

In his rookie season, Trey averaged 11.5 points and 7 rebounds per game while shooting 43% from three-point range. Trey is known for his athleticism and strong play on both offense and defense; he has been compared to former Kentucky Wildcat Anthony Davis.

Trey Lyles is a versatile and skilled player who can play both the forward and center positions. He was a McDonald's All-American in 2014, being named to the First-team Parade All-American team. Trey has played for Utah Jazz, Denver Nuggets, San Antonio Spurs, Detroit Pistons, and now Sacramento Kings over the past few years.

His versatility allows him to be used in a variety of ways on the court, which has helped him rack up an impressive amount of stat totals across his career thus far. Lyles was drafted by the Utah Jazz in 2015 and he has since been playing with them ever since - making it through all four seasons so far. 

In 2018 he won silver at the FIBA World Cup with Team USA before joining forces with Sacramento Kings later that year.

9. Sam Bowie

Career

• High school: Lebanon (Lebanon, Pennsylvania)
• College: Kentucky (1979–1984)
• NBA draft 1984 / Round: 1 / Pick: 2nd overall
• Selected by the Portland Trail Blazers
• Playing career: 1984–1995
• Position: Center
• Number: 30, 31
• 1984–1989: Portland Trail Blazers
• 1989–1993: New Jersey Nets
• 1993–1995: Los Angeles Lakers
• NBA All-Rookie First Team (1985), Consensus second-team All-American (1981), Second-team All-American – AP (1984), No. 31 retired by Kentucky Wildcats, McDonald's All-American (1979), First-team Parade All-American (1979)
• Points: 5,564 (10.9 ppg)
• Rebounds: 3,845 (7.5 rpg)
• Blocks: 909 (1.8 bpg)

Bowie was a dominant force in the NBA for many years, winning numerous awards and accolades including three consecutive MVPs. He was known for his powerful dunks and ability to score from anywhere on the court.

Bowie is also credited with popularizing the "superman" pose during games, which helped him raise awareness of muscular dystrophy among basketball fans across America. 

In 1995 he announced his retirement from professional basketball at age 30 after sustaining a knee injury that would eventually require surgery and keep him out of action for the remainder of that season.

Since then, Bowie has devoted himself full-time to activism work related to muscular dystrophy, serving as chairman of The Michael J Fox Foundation For Research And Education since its inception in 2000.

Also Played For: brooklyn nets

10. Eric Bledsoe

Point guard

Career

• High school: Parker (Birmingham, Alabama)
• College: Kentucky (2009–2010)
• NBA draft 2010 / Round: 1 / Pick: 18th overall
• Selected by the Oklahoma City Thunder
• Playing career: 2010–present
• 2010–2013: Los Angeles Clippers
• 2012: →Bakersfield Jam
• 2013–2017: Phoenix Suns
• 2017–2020: Milwaukee Bucks
• 2020–2021: New Orleans Pelicans
• 2021–2022: Los Angeles Clippers
• 2022–present: Shanghai Sharks
• NBA All-Defensive First Team (2019), NBA All-Defensive Second Team (2020), NBA All-Rookie Second Team (2011), SEC All-Rookie Team (2010)

Eric Bledsoe is a point guard who was drafted in the 2010 NBA draft by the Oklahoma City Thunder. He has played for several teams, most notably the Los Angeles Clippers and Phoenix Suns.

In 2018, he signed with the Bucks as a free agent. Eric Bledsoe is considered one of the best point guards in the league, and his skills have made him a regular starter on many teams over his career.

Eric Bledsoe was drafted 6th overall by the Phoenix Suns in 2010 and has become one of the most well-known and respected players in the NBA. Eric Bledsoe is a versatile player who can play both point guard and shooting guard, which makes him very dangerous for opposing teams.

Eric Bledsoe has been an all-star several times, including being voted to the All-Defensive First Team in 2019. He is also known for his explosiveness on offence, which has helped him average over 20 points per game throughout his career. 

Eric Bledsoe will be leaving Shanghai Sharks at the end of this season after three seasons with them - he will join the Los Angeles Clippers next year as they try to challenge for titles once again.

Also Played For: milwaukee bucks, los angeles clippers

11. Dan Issel

Power forward

Career

• High school: Batavia (Batavia, Illinois)
• College: Kentucky (1967–1970)
• NBA draft 1970 / Round: 8 / Pick: 122nd overall
• Selected by the Detroit Pistons
• Playing career: 1970–1985
• Position: Center / Power forward
• Number: 44, 25
• Coaching career: 1992–1994, 1999–2002
• ABA champion (1975), NBA All-Star (1977), 6× ABA All-Star (1971–1976), ABA All-Star Game MVP (1972), All-ABA First Team (1972), 4× All-ABA Second Team (1971, 1973, 1974, 1976), ABA Rookie of the Year (1971), ABA scoring champion (1971), J. Walter Kennedy Citizenship Award (1985), ABA All-Time Team, No. 44 retired by Denver Nuggets, Consensus first-team All-American (1970), Consensus second-team All-American (1969)
• Points: 27,482 (22.6 ppg)
• Rebounds: 11,133 (9.1 rpg)
• Assists: 2,907 (2.4 apg)
• Basketball Hall of Fame as player
• College Basketball Hall of Fame, Inducted in 2006

Dan Issel was a standout center and power forward in his playing days. He attended Kentucky University, where he won two NCAA championships as a player.

Dan Issel played for the Detroit Pistons over the course of nine seasons before retiring in 1985. After retirement, Dan Issel went on to coach for two years with the Indiana Pacers and then spent another five years with the Golden State Warriors before leaving coaching altogether in 2002.

Dan Issel was a successful coach in the ABA and NBA, leading both Denver Nuggets teams to championships. He is most well-known for winning an ABA championship with the Nuggets in 1975 and coaching them to two more NBA titles in 1999 and 2001. 

Dan Issel also has a long list of accomplishments as a player, being named consensus first-team All-American twice (1970 and 1969) while playing collegiately at Duke University.

Also Played For: denver nuggets, slam magazine

12. Jamal Murray

Point guard

Career

• High school: Grand River (Kitchener, Ontario)
• College: Kentucky (2015–2016)
• NBA draft 2016 / Round: 1 / Pick: 7th overall
• Selected by the Denver Nuggets
• Playing career: 2016–present
• 2016–present: Denver Nuggets
• NBA All-Rookie Second Team (2017), Third-team All-American – AP (2016), First-team All-SEC (2016), SEC All-Freshman Team (2016), BioSteel All-Canadian MVP (2015)
• Medals, , Men's basketball, Representing  Canada, Pan American Games, : 2015 Toronto: National team, FIBA Americas U16 Championship, : 2013 Maldonado: National team
• Men's basketball
• Representing  Canada
• Pan American Games
• : 2015 Toronto: National team
• FIBA Americas U16 Championship
• : 2013 Maldonado: National team

Jamal Murray was born on February 23, 1997 in Kitchener, Ontario. He played high school basketball at Grand River and then college basketball at Kentucky.

In the 2016 NBA draft, he was selected by the Denver Nuggets with the seventh overall pick. Since entering the league in 2016, Jamal Murray has been a key player for the Nuggets and is currently their starting point guard or shooting guard.

He has averaged 18 points per game over his career thus far and is considered one of the most promising young players in the NBA today Murray was a consensus first-team All-American as a freshman at Kentucky in 2016. 

He helped Canada win the FIBA Americas U16 Championship in 2013, and was also named MVP of that tournament.

Murray then transferred to Louisville for his sophomore season, where he averaged 19 points per game en route to being named Third Team All-American by AP and First Team All-SEC by SEC Network Television .

In 2017, Murray went on to be an NBA All Rookie Second Team selection with averages of 17 points and 3 rebounds per game while shooting 47% from the field overall (including 38% from three).

His playing style is described as "electric" by ESPN's Royce Young , who added that "Murray has all the tools you look for in an elite player: size, strength and athleticism."  

 Murray led the Cardinals to their first ever Final Four appearance before falling short against Gonzaga in what many called one of the greatest NCAA Tournament games ever played.

Also Played For: point guard, nba 2k21

13. Cliff Hagan

Career

• High school: Owensboro (Owensboro, Kentucky)
• College: Kentucky (1950–1954)
• NBA draft 1953 / Round: 3 / Pick: 21st overall
• Selected by the Boston Celtics
• Playing career: 1956–1969
• Position: Small forward
• Number: 6, 17, 16
• NBA champion (1958), 5× NBA All-Star (1958–1962), 2× All-NBA Second Team (1958, 1959), ABA All-Star (1968), NCAA champion (1951), 2× Consensus first-team All-American (1952, 1954)
• Points: 14,780 (17.7 ppg)
• Rebounds: 5,555 (6.6 rpg)
• Assists: 2,646 (3.2 apg)
• Basketball Hall of Fame as player
• College Basketball Hall of Fame, Inducted in 2006

Cliff Hagan was one of the most prolific scorers in NBA history. He scored 6, 17 and 16 points in his career. Cliff played for the St. Louis Hawks from 1956 to 1966 before moving on to the Dallas Chaparrals where he remained until 1969.

Cliff is best known for his time with the Boston Celtics, where he won three championships (1960–1962, 1963–1964, 1965). 

After retiring as a player, Cliff became an assistant coach with both the Atlanta Hawks and Philadelphia 76ers before being named head coach of the Detroit Pistons in 1995 but left after two seasons due to differences with general manager Joe Dumars Cliff Hagan was an outstanding player in both the NBA and ABA.

He won a championship with the Dallas Chaparrals in 1967, and also earned five All-Star nods. Cliff Hagan is one of only two players to ever be unanimously voted into the College Basketball Hall of Fame.

Also Played For: atlanta hawks

14. PJ Washington

Power forward

Career

• High school: , Findlay Prep (Henderson, Nevada), Lone Star High School (Frisco, Texas)
• College: Kentucky (2017–2019)
• NBA draft 2019 / Round: 1 / Pick: 12th overall
• Selected by the Charlotte Hornets
• Playing career: 2019–present
• 2019–present: Charlotte Hornets
• NBA All-Rookie Second Team (2020), Third-team All-American – AP, NABC, USBWA, SN (2019), First-team All-SEC (2019), McDonald's All-American (2017)
• Medals, , Men's basketball, Representing the  United States, FIBA Americas U18 Championship, : 2016 Chile: National team, FIBA Under-19 World Cup, : 2017 Egypt:
• Men's basketball
• Representing the  United States
• FIBA Americas U18 Championship
• : 2016 Chile: National team
• FIBA Under-19 World Cup
• : 2017 Egypt:

PJ Washington is a 24-year-old power forward who played college basketball at Kentucky. He was drafted 12th overall by the Charlotte Hornets in the 2019 NBA Draft and has since signed with the team.

In his freshman year at Kentucky, he averaged 10 points and 5 rebounds per game while playing alongside fellow All-American De'Aaron Fox. 

As a sophomore, Washington improved upon those numbers to average 16 points and 7 rebounds per contest before declaring for the 2019 NBA Draft early after winning SEC Player of the Year honors.

His rookie season saw him play in all 82 games for Charlotte, averaging 14 minutes and 4 points per game off the bench as they made it to the playoffs where they were eventually swept by Philadelphia。 

Washington was a McDonald's All-American in 2017 and helped lead the Hornets to their first playoff appearance since 2006. Washington played collegiately at Georgetown, where he won numerous awards, including Third Team AP All-America honors and First Team USBWA accolades as a sophomore in 2018-19.

In his rookie season with Charlotte, Washington averaged 16 points and eight rebounds per game while helping the team finish 41–41 on the year.

Also Played For: charlotte hornets

15. Brandon Boston Jr.

Los Angeles Clippers

Career

• High school: , Norcross, (Norcross, Georgia), Sierra Canyon, (Chatsworth, California)
• College: Kentucky (2020–2021)
• NBA draft 2021 / Round: 2 / Pick: 51st overall
• Selected by the Memphis Grizzlies
• Playing career: 2021–present
• 2021–present: Los Angeles Clippers
• 2021–2022: →Agua Caliente / Ontario Clippers
• McDonald's All-American (2020), California Mr. Basketball (2020)

Boston was a high school standout in Norcross, Georgia. He starred for the Sierra Canyon basketball team and helped them make it to the state championship game in his senior year.

Boston was selected with the fourth overall pick by the Los Angeles Clippers in the 2018 NBA draft. In his first professional season, he averaged 10 points per game and 3 rebounds per game while playing for both LA Clippers' G-League affiliate, The South Bay Lakers and their NBA parent team, the Clippers.

Boston is considered a long shot to make an impact on an NBA roster this upcoming season but he will continue to develop at training camp and preseason games before potentially making an appearance during one of LA's 82 regular season games later this year or early 2020s seasons.

 Brandon Boston Jr. is a 2021 forward from Chatsworth, California who was selected by the Memphis Grizzlies in the 2nd round of the 2021 NBA Draft.

He played college basketball at Kentucky and has appeared in two games for Los Angeles Clippers this season, averaging 3 points and 1 rebound per game. Brandon is known for his athleticism, scoring ability and shooting touch from outside the arc.

Also Played For: nba g league, rockets lakers basketball

16. Shaedon Sharpe

Small forward

Career

• High school: , H. B. Beal, (London, Ontario), Sunrise Christian Academy, (Bel Aire, Kansas), Dream City Christian, (Glendale, Arizona)
• NBA draft 2022 / Round: 1 / Pick: 7th overall
• Selected by the Portland Trail Blazers
• Playing career: 2022–present
• 2022–present: Portland Trail Blazers
• Medals, , Men's basketball, Representing  Canada, FIBA Americas Under-16 Championship, : 2019 Brazil: Team
• Men's basketball
• Representing  Canada
• FIBA Americas Under-16 Championship
• : 2019 Brazil: Team

Shaedon Sharpe is a 19-year-old shooting guard who was drafted by the Portland Trail Blazers in the 2017 NBA Draft. Shaedon Sharpe played high school basketball at Sunrise Christian Academy in Bel Aire, Kansas and averaged 23 points per game as a junior.

Shaedon Sharpe signed with Nike before playing college ball at H.B Beal of London, Ontario where he averaged 18 points per game as a senior in 2016–17 season. 

Shaedon Sharpe made his professional debut with the G League's Santa Cruz Warriors during their 2018–19 season and also appeared for them during their playoff run that ended in defeat against the Austin Spurs (where he recorded 20 points).

As of September 2019, Shaedon Sharpe is averaging 17 points per game while shooting 46 percent from three point range for Portland Trail Blazers' affiliate team, the G League's Santa Cruz Warriors.

Also Played For: portland trail blazers, nba summer league

17. Oscar Tshiebwe

Kentucky Wildcats men's basketball

Career

• High school: , Mountain Mission School, (Grundy, Virginia), Kennedy Catholic, (Hermitage, Pennsylvania)
• College: , West Virginia (2019–2021), Kentucky (2022–present)
• National college player of the year (2022), Kareem Abdul-Jabbar Award (2022), Pete Newell Big Man Award (2022), Consensus first-team All-American (2022), NCAA season rebounds leader (2022), SEC Player of the Year (2022), First-team All-SEC (2022), Second-team All-Big 12 (2020), SEC All-Defensive Team (2022), Big 12 All-Newcomer Team (2020), McDonald's All-American (2019), Nike Hoop Summit (2019)

Oscar Tshiebwe is a young center from DR Congo who will be playing for the Kentucky Wildcats in 2022. He was born on 27 November 1999 in Lubumbashi, DR Congo and he has yet to play any college basketball.

At 6' 9" (2.06 m) and 260 pounds (118 kg), Oscar is an imposing figure at the center position or power forward spot for the Wildcats team. 

Oscar's high school career included playing for Mountain Mission School in Grundy, Virginia as well as Kennedy Catholic High School in Hermitage, Pennsylvania where he helped lead his teams to state championships both times he played there.

With all of his experience leading elite-level high school teams, it is no surprise that Oscar has been dubbed one of the top recruits available for next season by many analysts and recruiting services alike.

Also Played For: march madness, west virginia basketball

18. Louie Dampier

Career

• High school: Southport (Indianapolis, Indiana)
• College: Kentucky (1964–1967)
• NBA draft 1967 / Round: 4 / Pick: 38th overall
• Selected by the Cincinnati Royals
• Playing career: 1967–1979
• Position: Point guard
• Number: 10
• 1967–1976: Kentucky Colonels
• 1976–1979: San Antonio Spurs
• ABA champion (1975), 7× ABA All-Star (1968–1970, 1972–1975), 4× All-ABA Second Team (1968–1970, 1974), ABA All-Rookie First Team (1968), ABA All-Time Team, 2× Consensus second-team All-America (1966, 1967)
• Points: 15,279 (15.9 ppg)
• Rebounds: 2,543 (2.6 rpg)
• Assists: 4,687 (4.9 apg)
• Basketball Hall of Fame as player

Louie Dampier was a professional basketball player who played for the Cincinnati Royals from 1967 to 1979. He averaged 14.3 points, 4.5 assists, and 3 rebounds per game during his career in the NBA.

Dampier is considered one of the best point guards of all time and is particularly known for his defensive abilities at this position. After retiring from playing basketball.

He started working as a commentator on various sports broadcasts around the world until 2001 when he retired again due to health concerns Louie Dampier was one of the most dominant players in both the ABA and NBA.

He won three championships with the Spurs, and is a Hall of Famer as a player. Dampier also had an impressive career overseas, winning two EuroLeague titles with Panathinaikos Athens. 

After his playing days were over, Dampier became a broadcaster for San Antonio Spurs games on Fox Sports Southwest until his retirement in 2013.

Also Played For: american basketball association

19. Devin Booker

Phoenix Suns

Career

• High school: , Grandville (Grandville, Michigan), Moss Point (Moss Point, Mississippi)
• College: Kentucky (2014–2015)
• NBA draft 2015 / Round: 1 / Pick: 13th overall
• Selected by the Phoenix Suns
• Playing career: 2015–present
• 2015–present: Phoenix Suns
• 3× NBA All-Star (2020–2022), All-NBA First Team (2022), NBA All-Rookie First Team (2016), NBA Three-Point Contest champion (2018), SEC Sixth Man of the Year (2015), Second-team All-SEC (2015), SEC All-Freshmen Team (2015), McDonald's All-American (2014)
• Medals, , Men's basketball, Representing the  United States, Olympic Games, : 2020 Tokyo: Team
• Men's basketball
• Representing the  United States
• Olympic Games
• : 2020 Tokyo: Team

Devin Booker is a shooting guard for the Phoenix Suns. He was drafted 13th overall in the 2015 NBA Draft by the Phoenix Suns and has since played for them in both the NBA and NBPA leagues.

Devin Booker is one of only two players to score over 1000 points in each of his first three seasons (the other being Kevin Durant). In 2017–2018, he led the Suns to their first playoff appearance since 2010.

In 2018–2019, he became just the second player ever to average at least 20 points per game while also averaging 5 assists per game; Stephen Curry had previously held this record. Devin Booker was one of the top prospects in the NBA Draft, and he has quickly proven himself to be a premier player.

He is averaging over 20 points per game for his career and can do it all on both sides of the ball. Booker has won multiple awards throughout his young career, including being named an All-Star and All-NBA First Team member.

Also Played For: basketball, phoenix suns

20. Karl-Anthony Towns

Minnesota Timberwolves

Career

• High school: St. Joseph (Metuchen, New Jersey)
• College: Kentucky (2014–2015)
• NBA draft 2015 / Round: 1 / Pick: 1st overall
• Selected by the Minnesota Timberwolves
• Playing career: 2015–present
• 2015–present: Minnesota Timberwolves
• 3× NBA All-Star (2018, 2019, 2022), 2× All-NBA Third Team (2018, 2022), NBA Rookie of the Year (2016), NBA All-Rookie First Team (2016), NBA Three-Point Contest champion (2022), Consensus second-team All-American (2015), SEC Freshman of the Year (2015), First-team All-SEC (2015), Gatorade National Player of the Year (2014), McDonald's All-American (2014), First-team Parade All-American (2014)
• Medals, , Men's basketball, Representing  Dominican Republic, Centrobasket, : 2012 Puerto Rico: National Team
• Men's basketball
• Representing  Dominican Republic
• Centrobasket
• : 2012 Puerto Rico: National Team

Karl-Anthony Towns is an American power forward and center for the Minnesota Timberwolves of the NBA. He was drafted first overall in 2015 and has since established himself as one of the league's top players.

The town is a versatile player who can play either frontcourt position, making him difficult to defend on both ends of the court. His offense is potent, averaging 22 points, 10 rebounds, and two blocks per game this season.

He also has a strong work ethic on and off the court; he frequently breaks down film with his coaches to improve his game further. 

With continued success in basketball, Karl-Anthony Towns may soon be considered one of the sport's greatest-ever talents Karl-Anthony Towns is one of the most successful young players in recent NBA history.

He has been a three-time All-Star and two-time All-NBA Third Team selection, as well as an NBA Rookie of the Year and consensus second-team All-American. The Kentucky product was drafted first overall by Minnesota in 2015 but has since moved to New Orleans on a trade deadline deal this year. 

There he will join fellow 2016 draftee DeMarcus Cousins who is already showing potential similarities between the duo offensively.

Karl Anthony Towns should continue his upward trajectory with another strong season for the Pelicans this year - expect big things from him.

Also Played For: minnesota timberwolves, bleacher report nba

21. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander

Oklahoma City Thunder

Career

• High school: , St. Thomas More (Hamilton, Ontario), Sir Allan MacNab (Hamilton, Ontario), Hamilton Heights Christian Academy (Chattanooga, Tennessee)
• College: Kentucky (2017–2018)
• NBA draft 2018 / Round: 1 / Pick: 11th overall
• Selected by the Charlotte Hornets
• Playing career: 2018–present
• 2018–2019: Los Angeles Clippers
• 2019–present: Oklahoma City Thunder
• NBA All-Rookie Second Team (2019), Second-team All-SEC (2018), SEC All-Freshman Team (2018), SEC tournament MVP (2018)
• Medals, , Men's basketball, Representing  Canada, FIBA Americas Under-18 Championship, : 2016 Chile: National team
• Men's basketball
• Representing  Canada
• FIBA Americas Under-18 Championship
• : 2016 Chile: National team

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander was born on July 12, 1998, in Toronto, Ontario. He starred at both high school and college levels before being drafted by the Charlotte Hornets in 2018.

Gilgeous-Alexander is a versatile shooting guard and a point guard who can play either off the ball or as part of an attacking unit. In his rookie season with the Hornets, he averaged 9 points, 4 rebounds, and 3 assists per game.

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander is a Canadian professional basketball player for the Oklahoma City Thunder of the National Basketball Association (NBA). 

The 20-year-old was selected with the fifth overall pick in the 2018 NBA draft. Shai Gilgeous Alexander played college ball at Kentucky, where he averaged 17.8 points and 7 assists per game as a freshman before declaring for the 2017 NBA Draft following his sophomore season.

In his rookie year, Shai led all rookies in scoring (17.4 ppg) and assists (7 APG), while also ranking second in steals (1 SPG) and third in rebounds (5 RPG). 

He was an All-Rookie Second Team selection by both CBS Sports and TNT, as well as earning voting honors from Sporting News, Bleacher Report, ESPN’s Marc Stein, NBC’s Billy Kennedy, and Golf Channel’s Brandel Chamblee amongst others.

Also Played For: nba, fiba basketball world cup

22. Tayshaun Prince

Small forward

Career

• 2002–2013: Detroit Pistons
• 2013–2015: Memphis Grizzlies
• 2015: Boston Celtics
• 2015: Detroit Pistons
• 2015–2016: Minnesota Timberwolves

Tayshaun Prince was a versatile small forward who played for the Detroit Pistons, Memphis Grizzlies and Indiana Pacers. 

Prince averaged 18 points per game over his career while shooting 46 percent from the field and 36 percent from three-point range.

He was inducted into the Kentucky Sports Hall of Fame in 2013 and is also a two-time All-Star selection (2006, 2008). 

After retiring as a player in 2016, Prince joined the Grizzlies' front office as vice president of basketball affairs. Tayshaun Prince was a five-time All-Star and one of the best players in NBA history.

He won an NBA championship with the Detroit Pistons in 2004. Tayshaun also had success with the Memphis Grizzlies, Boston Celtics, and Detroit Pistons before retiring in 2016. 

Prince is a two-time Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame nominee and is widely considered to be one of the greatest shooting guards ever to play in the NBA.

Tayshan was born on September 13th, 1982, in Knoxville, Tennessee.

Also Played For: detroit pistons

23. Rajon Rondo

Cleveland Cavaliers

Career

• High school: , Eastern (Middletown, Kentucky), Oak Hill Academy, (Mouth of Wilson, Virginia)
• College: Kentucky (2004–2006)
• NBA draft 2006 / Round: 1 / Pick: 21st overall
• Selected by the Phoenix Suns
• Playing career: 2006–present
• 2006–2014: Boston Celtics
• 2014–2015: Dallas Mavericks
• 2015–2016: Sacramento Kings
• 2016–2017: Chicago Bulls
• 2017–2018: New Orleans Pelicans
• 2018–2020: Los Angeles Lakers
• 2020–2021: Atlanta Hawks
• 2021: Los Angeles Clippers
• 2021–2022: Los Angeles Lakers
• 2022: Cleveland Cavaliers
• 2× NBA champion (2008, 2020), 4× NBA All-Star (2010–2013), All-NBA Third Team (2012), 2× NBA All-Defensive First Team (2010, 2011), 2× NBA All-Defensive Second Team (2009, 2012), 3× NBA assists leader (2012, 2013, 2016), NBA steals leader (2010), NBA All-Rookie Second Team (2007), SEC All-Freshman Team (2005), Second-team Parade All-American (2004), McDonald's All-American (2004)

Rajon Rondo is a former point guard who has played in the NBA for over 10 years. He was drafted by the Phoenix Suns and spent four seasons with them before moving to the Boston Celtics in 2009.

Rondo has been a key player for both teams, winning multiple championships and being named an All-Star several times. In 2017, he joined the New Orleans Pelicans on a one-year deal but later opted out of his contract to become a free agent once again.

With so much experience under his belt, there's no doubt that Rondo will be sought after by many teams this offseason - watch out. 

Rajon Rondo is a 2-time NBA champion and 4-time All-Star. Rajon Rondo led the Celtics to two championships in 2008 and 2020, as well as being an all-star every year from 2010 to 2013.

He was also named an All-NBA Third Team member in 2012 and 2016, respectively, while leading the league in assists both years. In 2009 he won his second consecutive Defensive Player of the Year award whilst also finishing third in MVP voting that season behind LeBron James and Kevin Durant. 

After spending time with Dallas (2014–2015) and Sacramento (2015–2016), Rajon returned to Boston for one final run before retiring at the end of the 2017 season.

Also Played For: 2006 nba draft, boston celtics

24. John Wall

Point guard

Career

• High school: , Garner, (Garner, North Carolina), Word of God, (Raleigh, North Carolina)
• College: Kentucky (2009–2010)
• NBA draft 2010 / Round: 1 / Pick: 1st overall
• Selected by the Washington Wizards
• Playing career: 2010–present
• 2010–2020: Washington Wizards
• 2020–2022: Houston Rockets
• 2022–present: Los Angeles Clippers
• 5× NBA All-Star (2014–2018), All-NBA Third Team (2017), NBA All-Defensive Second Team (2015), NBA All-Rookie First Team (2011), NBA Slam Dunk Contest champion (2014), Adolph Rupp Trophy (2010), Consensus first-team All-American (2010), SEC Player of the Year (2010)

John Wall was born in Raleigh, North Carolina on September 6, 1990. He attended high school at Garner where he starred for the basketball team and led them to a state championship.

In 2010, Wall was drafted 1st overall by the Washington Wizards in the NBA draft. As a rookie with the Wizards, John quickly established himself as one of the best point guards in the league, winning Rookie of The Year honours and being named an NBA All-Star three times (2012–2014).

Since 2015 however, Wall has been struggling with injuries which have limited his playing time both domestically and internationally; this culminated in him signing with newly formed side The Bayhawks for the 2019 season opener after being released by his old team.

Cleveland Cavaliers - earlier that month due to injury concerns stemming from surgery he had undergone on his right knee just prior to joining Bayhawks' training camp.

Despite these setbacks though, John continues to work extremely hard on his rehabilitation program and is hopeful that he can make a return to form soon enough so that he can finish what he started back when he first entered into professional basketball – becoming one of the greatest Point Guards ever.

Also Played For: washington wizards, nba 2k22 defensive

25. Frank Ramsey

Career

• High school: Madisonville, (Madisonville, Kentucky)
• College: Kentucky (1950–1954)
• NBA draft 1953 / Round: 1 / Pick: 5th overall
• Selected by the Boston Celtics
• Playing career: 1954–1964
• Position: Small forward / Shooting guard
• Number: 23
• 7× NBA champion (1957, 1959–1964), No. 23 retired by Boston Celtics, NCAA champion (1951), Consensus second-team All-American (1954), Second-team All-American – AP, UPI (1952), Third-team All-American – AP, UPI (1951)
• Points: 8,378 (13.4 ppg)
• Rebounds: 3,410 (5.5 rpg)
• Assists: 1,134 (1.8 apg)
• Basketball Hall of Fame as player
• College Basketball Hall of Fame, Inducted in 2006

Frank Ramsey was born on July 13, 1931 in Corydon, Kentucky. He attended high school at Madisonville and played college basketball for the Kentucky Wildcats from 1950 to 1954.

Ramsey was drafted by the Boston Celtics with the fifth overall pick in the 1953 NBA draft and played for them from 1954 to 1964. In 1963, he won an NBA Championship with the Celtics and also appeared in four All-Star games during his career.

After retiring as a player, Ramsey worked as a coach with various teams before joining ESPN as an analyst in 1984 . He died on July 8th 2018 after a long illness at 86 years old Ramsey was a key player on the Celtics' championship teams of 1957 and 1959-1964.

He was also an All-American in 1954, when he averaged 13.4 points per game. Ramsey retired from playing in 1965, but continued to coach with Kentucky Colonels until 1970. His achievements as a player and coach led to him being inducted into the Boston Basketball Hall of Fame in 1984.

Also Played For: 1960–61 boston celtics season

26. John Calipari

Clarion Golden Eagles men's basketball

Career

• 1978–1980: UNC Wilmington
• 1980–1982: Clarion
• Position(s): Point guard
• 1982–1985: Kansas (associate assistant)
• 1985–1988: Pittsburgh (assistant)
• 1988–1996: UMass
• 1996–1999: New Jersey Nets
• 1999–2000: Philadelphia 76ers (assistant)
• 2000–2009: Memphis
• 2009–present: Kentucky

John Calipari is the current head coach of Kentucky, where he has led the Wildcats to 379 wins over 108 seasons. Calipari played point guard at UNC Wilmington and Clarion and then spent three years as an assistant coach at Kansas.

In 1988, he took over as head coach of UMass and led the Minutemen to an NCAA Tournament appearance and a Final Four appearance. Calipari left UMass after two seasons to become the head coach of the Memphis Grizzlies, where he won the NBA Championship in 2001.

He was then hired as the head coach of the Kentucky Wildcats in 2002 and has led them to unprecedented success. 

In November 2014, he was granted a contract extension that will keep him at Kentucky through the 2024 season. Calipari is a two-time NBA Coach of the Year and a nine-time NBA All-Star.

He is also a member of the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame. Calipari has written several books, including his latest, which is about coaching and life.

Also Played For: school basketball, ncaa southeastern conference men's basketball

27. Kyle Macy

Guard

Career

• High school: Peru (Peru, Indiana)
• College: , Purdue (1975–1976), Kentucky (1977–1980)
• NBA draft 1979 / Round: 1 / Pick: 22nd overall
• Selected by the Phoenix Suns
• Playing career: 1980–1990
• Position: Point guard
• Number: 4, 24, 44
• As player:, NCAA champion (1978), Consensus first-team All-American (1980), Third-team All-American – NABC (1979), SEC Player of the Year (1980), SEC Male Athlete of the Year (1980), SEC tournament MVP (1979), First-team Parade All-American (1975), , As coach:, , OVC regular season champion (2003)
• Points: 5,259 (9.5 ppg)
• Rebounds: 1,214 (2.2 rpg)
• Assists: 2,198 (4.0 apg)
• Medals, , Representing  United States, Men's basketball, Pan American Games, : 1979 San Juan: Team competition
• Representing  United States
• Men's basketball
• Pan American Games
• : 1979 San Juan: Team competition

Kyle Macy was a point guard in the NBA for ten seasons. Macy played for the Phoenix Suns from 1979 to 1990. Macy was a key part of the Phoenix Suns' championship teams in the early 1980s.

Macy was also a part of the Suns' playoff runs in the late 1980s and early 1990s. Macy retired from the NBA in 1990. Kyle Macy is currently a basketball coach. Kyle Macy is also a motivational speaker.

Kyle Macy is currently the head coach of the Phoenix Suns' G-League affiliate, the Northern Arizona Suns. Kyle Macy is also a color commentator for the Phoenix Suns' NBA on Fox broadcasts. Kyle Macy is a retired player who was most notably a part of the Suns' 1980-1985 championship teams.

Macy started his playing career at Morehead State before transferring to the Chicago Bulls and Indiana Pacers. Macy retired in 2006 after coaching at Morehead State. Kyle Macy is a two-time SEC Male Athlete of the Year and a three-time consensus first-team All-American. 

Kyle Macy was a member of the 1978 NCAA champion Arizona Wildcats and the 1980 Phoenix Suns. Kyle Macy is now a basketball analyst for ESPN. Kyle Macy is married and has two children. 

Macy is a popular figure in the community and frequently donates to various charities. Kyle Macy is a respected member of the coaching community and is currently an assistant coach at Transylvania.

28. Tony Delk

Career

• High school: Haywood (Brownsville, Tennessee)
• College: Kentucky (1992–1996)
• NBA draft 1996 / Round: 1 / Pick: 16th overall
• Selected by the Charlotte Hornets
• Playing career: 1996–2008
• Position: Point guard / Shooting guard
• Number: 00, 28, 7, 5
• Coaching career: 2009–2013
• As player:, Greek League champion (2007), Greek Cup champion (2007), EuroLeague champion (2007), NCAA champion (1996), Final Four Most Outstanding Player (1996), Consensus first-team All-American (1996), SEC Player of the Year (1996), Fourth-team Parade All-American (1992), , As assistant coach:, , 2× SEC champion (2010, 2011)
• Points: 4,957 (9.1 ppg)
• Rebounds: 1,351 (2.5 rpg)
• Assists: 1,024 (1.9 apg)

Tony Delk played point guard and shooting guard in the NBA for eight seasons. He spent one season as an assistant coach with the Kentucky Wildcats. Delk is also a basketball coach, having been an assistant at Tennessee and Kentucky.

Delk was born in Covington, Tennessee, in 1974. He played high school basketball at Haywood (Brownsville, Tennessee) before going to Kentucky to play for Rick Majerus. Delk was drafted 16th overall by the Charlotte Hornets in the 1996 NBA draft.

After playing for the Hornets, Delk played for the Sacramento Kings, New Jersey Nets, and Milwaukee Bucks. In 2008, he retired from the NBA. 

Delk is now a basketball coach at Tennessee. Tony Delk was a standout player at NC State, winning numerous titles and accolades while playing for the Wolfpack.

Following his playing career, Delk served as an assistant coach at Kentucky under Rick Pitino. In 2013, he took a job as an assistant coach at New Mexico State. Delk is currently an assistant coach with the Golden State Warriors. 

He has also had coaching stints with Phoenix Suns, Dallas Mavericks, Atlanta Hawks and Panathinaikos.

Delk is a two-time EuroLeague champion (with Panathinaikos in 2006 and 2008) and a Greek League champion (with Golden State in 2009). He was also a consensus first-team All-American in 1996. Delk was the recipient of the John R. 

Wooden Award in 2007. He retired from playing in 2011, after spending his entire career with NC State.

29. Jack Givens

Career

• High school: Bryan Station, (Lexington, Kentucky)
• College: Kentucky (1974–1978)
• NBA draft 1978 / Round: 1 / Pick: 16th overall
• Selected by the Atlanta Hawks
• Playing career: 1978–1983
• Position: Shooting guard / Small forward
• Number: 21
• 1978–1980: Atlanta Hawks
• 1982–1983: Akita Isuzu Motors
• JBL2 MVP (1982), JBL2 Best5 (1982), JBL2 Scoring leader (1982), NCAA champion (1978), NCAA Final Four Most Outstanding Player (1978), Helms Foundation Player of the Year (1978), Consensus second-team All-American (1978), SEC Male Athlete of the Year (1978), Third-team Parade All-American (1974), Kentucky Mr. Basketball (1974)
• Points: 1,040 (6.7 ppg)
• Rebounds: 456 (2.9 rpg)
• Assists: 142 (0.9 apg)

Jack Givens was born on September 21, 1956 in Lexington, Kentucky. He attended high school at Bryan Station and played for the Kentucky Wildcats from 1974 to 1978.

Givens was drafted by the Atlanta Hawks in the 1978 NBA draft and played for the team from 1978 to 1983. He is best known for his time with the Atlanta Hawks where he was a two-time All-Star and helped them to win the 1983 NBA championship.

Givens currently works as a television commentator and analyst. Givens was a two-time JBL MVP and a two-time National Champion with the University of Kentucky. He was drafted by the Philadelphia 76ers in the third round of the 1978 NBA Draft.

He played for the 76ers for four seasons before being traded to the Golden State Warriors in 1982. Givens played for the Warriors for six seasons before retiring in 1987. 

He was inducted into the Kentucky Athletics Hall of Fame in 1999. Givens is a co-founder of the Jack Givens Foundation, which helps disadvantaged youth.

He is also a basketball coach and has worked with the youth of Philadelphia. Givens was diagnosed with cancer in 2012 and has since recovered. He currently resides in Philadelphia and is an analyst for the 76ers.

30. Rex Chapman

Career

• High school: Apollo (Owensboro, Kentucky)
• College: Kentucky (1986–1988)
• NBA draft 1988 / Round: 1 / Pick: 8th overall
• Selected by the Charlotte Hornets
• Playing career: 1988–2000
• Position: Shooting guard
• Number: 3, 7
• 1988–1992: Charlotte Hornets
• 1992–1995: Washington Bullets
• 1995–1996: Miami Heat
• 1996–2000: Phoenix Suns
• NBA All-Rookie Second Team (1989), Third-team All-American – NABC (1988), First-team All-SEC (1988), Second-team All-SEC (1987), SEC tournament MVP (1988), McDonald's All-American (1986), First-team Parade All-American (1986)
• Points: 9,731 (14.6 ppg)
• Rebounds: 1,645 (2.5 rpg)
• Assists: 1,798 (2.7 apg)
• Medals, , Men's basketball, Representing  United States, Pan American Games, : 1987 Indianapolis: Team competition
• Men's basketball
• Representing  United States
• Pan American Games
• : 1987 Indianapolis: Team competition

Rex Chapman was born on October 5, 1967 in Bowling Green, Kentucky. Chapman played college basketball at Kentucky and was drafted by the Charlotte Hornets in the 1988 NBA draft.

Chapman played for the Charlotte Hornets, the Washington Bullets, the Miami Heat, and the Phoenix Suns over the course of his career. Chapman is best known for his time with the Phoenix Suns.

He helped the Suns to two consecutive playoff appearances and was named to the All-NBA Second Team in 1997. Chapman retired from the NBA in 2000. He has since pursued a career in acting. Chapman has starred in films such as The Men Who Stare at Goats and The Mexican.

Chapman is married and has three children. Rex Chapman was a standout player at the University of Kentucky and was drafted in the first round by the Indiana Pacers in 1988.

 Chapman played for the Pacers, Philadelphia 76ers, and Los Angeles Lakers in his NBA career. Chapman was a three-time all-star and was named to the NBA All-Rookie Second Team in 1989.

Chapman retired in 2000 and now works as an NBA analyst for TNT. Chapman is married with two children. Chapman is a member of the Kentucky Hall of Fame. Chapman is a Christian and often speaks about his faith in public. 

Chapman currently resides in Lexington, Kentucky. Chapman is a big advocate for education and often visits schools to talk to kids about the importance of pursuing a career in sports.

31. Kenny Walker

Career

• High school: Crawford County (Roberta, Georgia)
• College: Kentucky (1982–1986)
• NBA draft 1986 / Round: 1 / Pick: 5th overall
• Selected by the New York Knicks
• Playing career: 1986–1997
• Position: Small forward
• Number: 34, 7, 15
• 1986–1991: New York Knicks
• 1991–1992: Granollers
• 1993: Teamsystem Fabriano
• 1993: Cáceres
• 1993–1995: Washington Bullets
• 1996–1997: Isuzu Motors Lynx Gigacats / Isuzu Gigacats
• NBA Slam Dunk Contest champion (1989), JBL Best5 (1996), Consensus first-team All-American (1986), Consensus second-team All-American (1985), 2× SEC Player of the Year (1985, 1986), No. 34 honored by Kentucky Wildcats, Third-team Parade All-American (1982)
• Points: 3,128 (7.0 ppg)
• Rebounds: 1,793 (4.0 rpg)
• Medals, , Men's basketball, Representing the  United States, FIBA U19 World Championship, : 1983 Palma de Mallorca: National team
• Men's basketball
• Representing the  United States
• FIBA U19 World Championship
• : 1983 Palma de Mallorca: National team

Walker was an all-star small forward in the NBA for a number of years. He was drafted by the New York Knicks in 1986 and played for them until 1997. Walker is most well-known for his time with the Knicks, but he also played for the Granollers and the Detroit Pistons.

Walker is a two-time All-Star and has won several awards, including the Sixth Man of the Year Award. Walker is currently a broadcaster for the Knicks and the Atlanta Hawks. Walker is married and has two children. Walker is currently retired from professional basketball, but he still works as a broadcaster.

Walker is a popular figure in the New York area, and he often attends fan events. Walker has a net worth of $10 million. Walker was a highly decorated college player, winning two SEC Player of the Year awards and being a consensus first-team All-American both in 1985 and 1986.

 Walker was picked by the Washington Bullets in the first round of the 1987 NBA draft and spent three seasons with the team, helping them to make the playoffs twice.

Walker was traded to the Milwaukee Bucks midway through the 1991 season and spent two more seasons with the team before retiring in 1994. 

Walker has been largely inactive since retiring and has only made a handful of appearances at charity events. Walker is currently a basketball coach in Kentucky.

32. Alex Groza

Career

• High school: Martins Ferry, (Martins Ferry, Ohio)
• College: Kentucky (1945–1949)
• BAA draft 1949 / Round: 1 / Pick: 2nd overall
• Selected by the Indianapolis Olympians
• Playing career: 1949–1951
• Position: Center
• Number: 15
• NBA All-Star (1951), 2× All-NBA First Team (1950, 1951), 2× NCAA champion (1948, 1949), 2× NCAA Final Four MOP (1948, 1949), 2× Consensus first-team All-American (1947, 1949), Consensus second-team All-American (1948)
• Points: 2,925 (22.5 ppg)
• Rebounds: 709 (10.7 rpg)
• Assists: 318 (2.4 apg)
• Medals, , Men's basketball, Representing  United States, Olympic Games, : 1948 London: Team competition
• Men's basketball
• Representing  United States
• Olympic Games
• : 1948 London: Team competition

Alex Groza was a dominant center in the BAA and NBA. Groza was drafted by the Indianapolis Olympians in 1949 and played with them until 1951. Groza then played with the Boston Celtics, Philadelphia 76ers, and Detroit Pistons.

Groza was a six-time all-star and won three championships with the Celtics. Groza was inducted into the Basketball Hall of Fame in 1984. 

Groza died in 1995 at the age of 68. Alex Groza was a highly decorated player in both the NBA and NCAA, earning two All-NBA First Team honors and two NCAA Final Four Most Outstanding Player awards.

Alex Groza was a forward who dominated the court in his career, averaging 22.5 points and 10.7 rebounds per game. Groza was one of the first players to adopt the jump shot as his main offensive weapon, and his arsenal of finesse shots made him a difficult opponent for any defender. 

Groza was a member of the Indianapolis Olympians in the 1949-50 season, and he helped lead the team to the NBA championship that year. Groza played two seasons with the Indiana Pacers before joining the Kentucky Colonels in the 1954-55 season. 

After two years with the Colonels, Groza signed with the San Diego Conquistadors in the 1966-67 season. Alex Groza retired from professional basketball after the 1970-71 season, and he currently works as a basketball coach in the Dominican Republic.

33. Ralph Beard

Career

• High school: Louisville Male, (Louisville, Kentucky)
• College: Kentucky (1945–1949)
• BAA draft 1949 / Round: 2
• Selected by the Chicago Stags
• Playing career: 1949–1951
• Position: Guard
• Number: 12
• 1949–1951: Indianapolis Olympians
• NBA All-Star (1951), All-NBA First-Team (1951), 2× NCAA champion (1948, 1949), 3× Consensus first-team All-American (1947–1949)
• Points: 2,006 (15.9 ppg)
• Rebounds: 251 (3.8 rpg)
• Assists: 551 (4.4 apg)
• Medals, , Men's basketball, Representing the  United States, : 1948 London: Team competition
• Men's basketball
• Representing the  United States
• : 1948 London: Team competition

Beard attended high school in Louisville, Kentucky and played basketball for the Louisville Male Wildcats. Beard was drafted by the Chicago Stags in 1949, and played for the team from 1949 to 1951.

After playing in the BAA, Beard joined the Chicago Stags' NBA predecessor, the St. Louis Hawks, in 1951. Beard played for the Hawks for two seasons before retiring in 1953. Beard later worked as a basketball coach at various schools in Kentucky and Illinois.

Beard died on November 29, 2007 at the age of 79. Ralph Beard was one of the most decorated players in NCAA history, winning three titles as a player and two more as a coach. 

Beard starred at Indiana University, where he led the Hoosiers to back-to-back NCAA championships in 1948 and 1949.

He was an All-American in 1947 and 1949 and won an NBA All-Star Game MVP in 1951. Beard went on to have a successful coaching career, leading the Philadelphia 76ers to the NBA Finals in 1976. He is a member of the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame and the Indiana University Athletic Hall of Fame.

34. Willie Cauley-Stein

Power forward

Career

• High school: Olathe Northwest (Olathe, Kansas)
• College: Kentucky (2012–2015)
• NBA draft 2015 / Round: 1 / Pick: 6th overall
• Selected by the Sacramento Kings
• Playing career: 2015–present
• 2015–2019: Sacramento Kings
• 2019–2020: Golden State Warriors
• 2020–2022: Dallas Mavericks
• 2022: Philadelphia 76ers
• 2022–present: Rio Grande Valley Vipers
• NBA All-Rookie Second Team (2016), Consensus first-team All-American (2015), NABC Defensive Player of the Year (2015), SEC Defensive Player of the Year (2015), First-team All-SEC (2015), 2× SEC All-Defensive Team (2014, 2015), SEC All-Freshman team (2013)

Willie Cauley-Stein was a highly successful high school player and was drafted by the Sacramento Kings in the first round of the 2015 NBA draft. 

Cauley-Stein has spent the majority of his career with the Sacramento Kings and has averaged 10.2 points, 7.9 rebounds, 1.5 blocks, and 1.1 assists per game over the course of his career.

Cauley-Stein has played in one All-Star Game and was named to the All-NBA Third Team in the 2017-2018 season. Cauley-Stein is a versatile player who can both score and rebound in high-pressure situations. 

Cauley-Stein is set to become a free agent at the end of the 2020-21 season and may look to sign with a new team. Cauley-Stein is an American citizen and has stated that he would like to play for the United States in the 2020 Olympics.

35. Michael Kidd-Gilchrist

Career

• High school: St. Patrick (Elizabeth, New Jersey)
• College: Kentucky (2011–2012)
• NBA draft 2012 / Round: 1 / Pick: 2nd overall
• Selected by the Charlotte Bobcats
• Playing career: 2012–2020
• Position: Small forward / Power forward
• 2012–2020: Charlotte Bobcats / Hornets
• 2020: Dallas Mavericks
• NBA All-Rookie Second Team (2013), NCAA champion (2012), Consensus second-team All-American (2012), First-team All-SEC (2012), McDonald's All-American Game Co-MVP (2011), Mr. Basketball USA (2011), Second-team Parade All-American (2010), Fourth-team Parade All-American (2011)
• Medals, , Men's basketball, Representing  United States, FIBA World U17 Championship, : 2010 Hamburg: Team
• Men's basketball
• Representing  United States
• FIBA World U17 Championship
• : 2010 Hamburg: Team

Michael Kidd-Gilchrist was born in 1993 and is from Philadelphia, PA. He played college basketball at Kentucky and was drafted 2nd overall in the 2012 NBA draft by the Charlotte Bobcats.

In his first season with the Bobcats, MKG averaged 13.5 points and 7.8 rebounds per game. In the 2015–16 season, MKG joined the Hornets and improved his numbers to 17.1 points and 9.2 rebounds per game.

In January of the 2018–19 season, MKG was traded to the Dallas Mavericks. In his first season with Dallas, MKG averaged 18.2 points and 8.8 rebounds per game. MKG is a two-time All-Star and has been nominated for the NBA MVP award.

He is currently playing for the Dallas Mavericks. Michael Kidd-Gilchrist was an all-star freshman at Kentucky, averaging 17.7 points and 7.1 rebounds per game. He declared for the 2012 NBA draft and was selected with the fifth overall pick by the Charlotte Bobcats.

MKG was traded to the Portland Trail Blazers in February of 2014. MKG made the All-Rookie First Team and was named to the All-Defensive Second Team. 

MKG was traded to the Brooklyn Nets on February 18, 2017. MKG has played in 129 games in the NBA and averages 14.2 points, 5.9 rebounds, 1.4 assists, and 1.1 blocks per game.

MKG was named a starter in the 2017 NBA All-Star Game. MKG was selected to participate in the 2018 NBA All-Star Game. Michael Kidd-Gilchrist is currently a member of the Brooklyn Nets.

36. Jodie Meeks

Career

• High school: Norcross (Norcross, Georgia)
• College: Kentucky (2006–2009)
• NBA draft 2009 / Round: 2 / Pick: 41st overall
• Selected by the Milwaukee Bucks
• Playing career: 2009–2022
• Position: Shooting guard
• Number: 23, 20
• Coaching career: 2022–present
• NBA champion (2019), Consensus second-team All-American (2009), First-team All-SEC (2009)
• Medals, , Men's basketball, Representing  United States, FIBA AmeriCup, : 2022 Brazil:
• Men's basketball
• Representing  United States
• FIBA AmeriCup
• : 2022 Brazil:

Meeks was a two-time All-American at Kentucky, and was drafted by the Milwaukee Bucks in 2009. He played for the Bucks, Golden State Warriors, and Washington Wizards in his NBA career.

Meeks is currently an assistant coach with the Birmingham Squadron of the NBA G League. Meeks was born in 1987 in Nashville, Tennessee, and attended Norcross High School. Meeks is married and has a daughter.

Meeks started his NBA career with the Milwaukee Bucks in 2009 and quickly became a fan favorite. He was traded to Philadelphia in 2010 and won a championship with the 76ers in 2012. Meeks then spent four seasons with the Lakers before signing with the Pistons in 2014.

He then played for the Magic and Pistons again before joining the Wizards in 2017. Meeks is currently a member of the Toronto Raptors.

37. Kevin Knox II

Small forward

Career

• High school: Tampa Catholic, (Tampa, Florida)
• College: Kentucky (2017–2018)
• NBA draft 2018 / Round: 1 / Pick: 9th overall
• Selected by the New York Knicks
• Playing career: 2018–present
• 2018–2022: New York Knicks
• 2022: Atlanta Hawks
• 2022–present: Detroit Pistons
• First-team All-SEC (2018), SEC Freshman of the Year (2018), McDonald's All-American (2017), Florida Mr. Basketball (2017)
• Medals, , Men's basketball, Representing the  United States, FIBA Americas U16 Championship, : 2015 Argentina: National team, FIBA U17 World Championship, : 2016 Spain: National team
• Men's basketball
• Representing the  United States
• FIBA Americas U16 Championship
• : 2015 Argentina: National team
• FIBA U17 World Championship
• : 2016 Spain: National team

Knox attended Tampa Catholic High School in Tampa, Florida, and was a two-time All-American and 2017 Mr. Basketball award winner. Knox was drafted by the New York Knicks in the first round of the 2018 NBA draft.

Knox has appeared in all 82 games for the Knicks in his rookie season, averaging 10.5 points, 4.1 rebounds, and 1.9 assists per game. Knox is considered to be a versatile player, capable of playing both small forward and power forward positions.

Knox is a strong defender, averaging 1.3 steals and 1.7 blocks per game in 2018–19. Knox is also an effective scorer, averaging 18.5 points per game in his rookie season. Knox is expected to be a mainstay for the Knicks for years to come. He was a McDonald's All-American and a top prospect in his class.

Knox II was one of the top freshmen in the SEC in 2018. He played on the United States' team at the FIBA Americas U16 Championship in 2015 and the FIBA U17 World Championship the following year. 

Knox II has been drafted by the Atlanta Hawks in the first round of the 2018 NBA Draft. Knox II is a versatile player who can effectively play both forward positions.

38. Kevin Grevey

Career

• High school: Taft (Hamilton, Ohio)
• College: Kentucky (1972–1975)
• NBA draft 1975 / Round: 1 / Pick: 18th overall
• Selected by the Washington Bullets
• Playing career: 1975–1985
• Position: Shooting guard / Small forward
• Number: 35
• 1975–1983: Washington Bullets
• 1983–1985: Milwaukee Bucks
• NBA champion (1978), Consensus first-team All-American (1975), 2× SEC Player of the Year – AP (1973, 1975)
• Points: 7,364 (11.0 ppg)
• Assists: 1,247 (1.9 apg)
• Rebounds: 1,594 (2.4 rpg)

Grevey was a high school standout in Hamilton, Ohio and was drafted by the Washington Bullets in the 1975 NBA draft. He played for the Bullets for four seasons before being traded to the Philadelphia 76ers.

After two seasons with the 76ers, Grevey was traded to the Phoenix Suns. He played two more seasons before retiring in 1985. Grevey is best known for his time with the Washington Bullets, where he was a key player on the team's back-to-back NBA championships in 1978 and 1979.

He also won a gold medal with the United States men's national basketball team at the 1980 Summer Olympics. After retiring from the NBA, Grevey became a basketball coach. 

He has been the head coach of the Cleveland State Vikings and the Cleveland Cavaliers, and he is in his third season as the head coach of the Akron Zips.

39. Aaron Harrison

Guard

Career

• High school: Travis (Pecan Grove, Texas)
• College: Kentucky (2013–2015)
• NBA draft: 2015 / Undrafted
• Playing career: 2015–present
• 2015–2017: Charlotte Hornets
• 2016: → Oklahoma City Blue
• 2016: → Erie BayHawks
• 2016: → Greensboro Swarm
• 2017: Delaware 87ers
• 2017–2018: Reno Bighorns
• 2018: Dallas Mavericks
• 2018–2020: Galatasaray
• 2020–2021: Olympiacos
• 2021–2022: Türk Telekom
• 2022: Cedevita Olimpija
• 2022–present: Kaohsiung Steelers
• Turkish League All-Star (2020), McDonald's All-American (2013), First-team Parade All-American (2013), Texas Mr. Basketball (2013)

Aaron Harrison played college basketball for Kentucky from 2013-2015. Harrison was not drafted in the 2015 NBA draft but signed with the Charlotte Hornets.

In 2016, Harrison signed with the Oklahoma City Blue. Harrison was waived by Oklahoma City Blue in late December 2017. Harrison has since joined the Fort Wayne Mad Ants of the NBA Development League.

Aaron Harrison is a highly touted prospect who was the number one overall pick in the 2013 NBA Draft. Harrison has played for four different teams in his three seasons in the NBA. He has averaged 5.9 points and 3.5 rebounds per game in his career.

Harrison is a very good three-point shooter, shooting over 40 percent from three-point range in his career. Harrison is a very good passer, averaging 7.5 assists per game in his career. Harrison is a very good defender, averaging 2.5 steals per game in his career.

Harrison is a very good rebounder, averaging 7.2 rebounds per game in his career. Harrison is a very good shot blocker, averaging 1.8 blocks per game in his career. Harrison is a very good team player, averaging 16.7 assists per game in his career.

40. Patrick Patterson

Career

• High school: Huntington, (Huntington, West Virginia)
• College: Kentucky (2007–2010)
• NBA draft 2010 / Round: 1 / Pick: 14th overall
• Selected by the Houston Rockets
• Playing career: 2010–2021
• Position: Power forward
• 2010–2013: Houston Rockets
• 2010: →Rio Grande Valley Vipers
• 2013: Sacramento Kings
• 2013–2017: Toronto Raptors
• 2017–2019: Oklahoma City Thunder
• 2019–2021: Los Angeles Clippers
• 2× First-team All-SEC (2009, 2010), SEC Rookie of the Year – Coaches (2008), SEC All-Defensive team (2010), Second-team Parade All-American (2007), McDonald's All-American (2007)

Patrick Patterson was born on March 14, 1989 in Washington, D.C. Patterson attended high school at Huntington in West Virginia. He played college basketball for Kentucky.

Patterson was drafted by the Houston Rockets in the 2010 NBA draft. Patterson played for the Rockets from 2010 to 2021. Patterson has also played for the Toronto Raptors and the Indiana Pacers.

Patterson is a power forward. Patterson has averaged 10.2 points and 5.1 rebounds per game in his career. Patterson has won two championships with the Houston Rockets (2015, 2017). 

Patrick Patterson is a 6'8", 245-pound power forward/center who was a two-time First-team All-SEC selection at Tennessee.

Patterson played his first six seasons in the NBA with the Houston Rockets before joining the Sacramento Kings in 2013. Patterson has averaged 11.5 points and 7.8 rebounds per game in his career. 

Patterson is a strong defender with a great understanding of the game. Patterson is a key player for the Toronto Raptors, and is looking to help them win a championship next season.

Patterson is a native of Knoxville, Tennessee, and is looking to help his hometown team win a championship next season. Patrick Patterson is a great role model for young players and has shown that hard work and dedication can lead to success in the NBA. 

Patrick Patterson is a versatile player who can play both center and power forward. Patrick Patterson is a great player and a great role model for young players, and he is looking to help the Toronto Raptors win a championship next season.

Also Played For: toronto raptors

41. Wayne Turner

Career

• High school: Beaver Country Day School, (Chestnut Hill, Massachusetts)
• College: Kentucky (1995–1999)
• NBA draft: 1999 / Undrafted
• Playing career: 1999–2008
• Position: Guard
• Number: 5
• 1999: Boston Celtics
• 1999–2000: Cincinnati Stuff
• 2000: Harlem Globetrotters
• 2001: Andrea Costa Imola
• 2002: Dakota Wizards
• 2002–2003: Townsville Crocodiles
• 2005: Dakota Wizards
• 2005–2006: Spirou Basket
• 2006: Boston Frenzy
• 2007–2008: New Zealand Breakers
• 2008: East Kentucky Miners
• 2× NCAA champion (1996, 1998), First-team Parade All-American (1995)

Turner was a guard out of high school and played two years of college basketball at Kentucky before being drafted without ever playing in the NBA. Turner then spent two years playing in the CBA, where he was a two-time All-Star.

Turner then came over to the NBA and played for the Boston Celtics for three seasons. In 2006, Turner was traded to the Memphis Grizzlies and played for them for two more seasons. In 2008, Turner was traded to the Philadelphia 76ers, where he played for one more season.

Turner then retired from professional basketball in 2008. Turner is now a basketball coach at his alma mater, Beaver Country Day School. 

Turner is married and has three children. Turner is 46 years old and 6' 2" tall. Wayne Turner was an All-American and NCAA champion at the University of Kentucky.

He was drafted by the Harlem Globetrotters in the 2000 NBA Draft and played with them for six seasons. Turner then moved to Italy and played with the Andrea Costa Imola team for two seasons. 

He then moved to the United States and played with the Dakota Wizards for two seasons. Turner then moved to Australia and played with the Townsville Crocodiles for two seasons.

Turner then moved to Spain and played with the Spirou Basket team for two seasons. Turner then returned to the United States and played with the Boston Frenzy for one season. Turner then retired from basketball. He now coaches at his alma mater, the University of Kentucky.

42. Ron Mercer

Career

• High school: , Goodpasture Christian, (Madison, Tennessee), Oak Hill Academy, (Mouth of Wilson, Virginia)
• College: Kentucky (1995–1997)
• NBA draft 1997 / Round: 1 / Pick: 6th overall
• Selected by the Boston Celtics
• Playing career: 1997–2005
• Position: Small forward / Shooting guard
• Number: 5, 33, 1
• 1997–1999: Boston Celtics
• 1999–2000: Denver Nuggets
• 2000: Orlando Magic
• 2000–2002: Chicago Bulls
• 2002–2003: Indiana Pacers
• 2003–2004: San Antonio Spurs
• 2004–2005: New Jersey Nets
• NBA All-Rookie First Team (1998), NCAA champion (1996), Consensus first-team All-American (1997), SEC Player of the Year (1997), 2× First-team Parade All-American (1994, 1995), 2× Tennessee Mr. Basketball (1993, 1994)
• Points: 5,892 (13.6 ppg)
• Rebounds: 1,342 (3.1 rpg)
• Assists: 921 (2.1 apg)

Ron Mercer was born in Nashville, Tennessee, on May 18, 1976. He attended high school at Goodpasture Christian in Madison, Tennessee, and then Oak Hill Academy in Mouth of Wilson, Virginia.

After college, Mercer was drafted by the Boston Celtics in the 1997 NBA draft and played for the team from 1997 to 2005. He is best known for his time with the Celtics, where he won two championships (1998 and 2004) and was an All-Star twice.

After his playing career ended, Mercer began working as a commentator for the Celtics and TNT. In 2017, Mercer was diagnosed with acute myeloid leukemia and began treatment. He is currently in remission and continues to work as a commentator for the Celtics.

Ron Mercer was a versatile player in the NBA who was known for his scoring ability and defensive prowess. Mercer played for the Boston Celtics, Denver Nuggets, Orlando Magic, Chicago Bulls, Indiana Pacers, and San Antonio Spurs, amassing a total of 13,636 points and 5,872 rebounds in his career.

His success in the NBA earned him several accolades, including two NBA All-Rookie First Team selections and a NCAA champion. 

Mercer is also a two-time SEC Player of the Year and a two-time Tennessee Mr. Basketball winner. Mercer retired from the NBA in 2005 after a successful 13-year career.

43. Terrence Jones

Career

• High school: Jefferson (Portland, Oregon)
• College: Kentucky (2010–2012)
• NBA draft 2012 / Round: 1 / Pick: 18th overall
• Selected by the Houston Rockets
• Playing career: 2012–present
• 2012–2016: Houston Rockets
• 2012–2013: →Rio Grande Valley Vipers
• 2016–2017: New Orleans Pelicans
• 2017: Milwaukee Bucks
• 2017: Qingdao DoubleStar Eagles
• 2017–2018: Santa Cruz Warriors
• 2018–2019: Erie BayHawks
• 2019: Houston Rockets
• 2019: →Rio Grande Valley Vipers
• 2019: TNT KaTropa
• 2020: Mets de Guaynabo
• 2021: Grand Rapids Gold
• 2021–2022: Indios de Mayagüez
• 2022–present: Kaohsiung Steelers
• PBA Best Import of the Conference (2019 Commissioner's), NCAA champion (2012), SEC Rookie of the Year (2011), First-team All-SEC (2011), SEC All-Rookie Team (2011), McDonald's All-American (2010), First-team Parade All-American (2010)

Terrence Jones was born in Portland, Oregon in 1992. He attended Jefferson High School in Portland and played college basketball for Kentucky. Jones was drafted by the Houston Rockets in the 2012 NBA draft and has since played for the team.

Jones is considered to be one of the strongest power forwards in the NBA and has averaged 13.2 points and 7.8 rebounds per game in his career. 

Jones is a two-time All-Star and was named to the All-NBA Third Team in 2016. Terrence Jones is a professional basketball player who has played for several teams in the National Basketball Association (NBA).

He was drafted by the New Orleans Pelicans in the first round of the 2011 NBA Draft. He won the SEC Rookie of the Year Award in 2011 and the NBA Most Improved Player Award in 2012. 

In 2013, he was traded to the Rio Grande Valley Vipers. In 2016, he was traded to the Milwaukee Bucks. He was traded to the Qingdao DoubleStar Eagles in 2017. He was traded to the Santa Cruz Warriors in 2018.

He was traded to the Erie BayHawks in 2019. He was traded to the Houston Rockets in 2019.

44. Archie Goodwin

Shooting guard

Career

• High school: Sylvan Hills (Sherwood, Arkansas)
• College: Kentucky (2012–2013)
• NBA draft 2013 / Round: 1 / Pick: 29th overall
• Selected by the Oklahoma City Thunder
• Playing career: 2013–present
• 2013–2016: Phoenix Suns
• 2014–2015: →Bakersfield Jam
• 2016: New Orleans Pelicans
• 2016–2017: Greensboro Swarm
• 2017: Brooklyn Nets
• 2017–2018: Greensboro Swarm
• 2018: Northern Arizona Suns
• 2018: Zhejiang Golden Bulls
• 2019: Maine Red Claws
• 2019–2020: Sigortam.net İTÜ BB
• 2020: Ratiopharm Ulm
• 2020–2021: Metropolitans 92
• 2022: Budivelnyk
• 2022: Maccabi Rishon LeZion
• 2022–present: BC Budivelnyk
• SEC All-Freshman team (2013), McDonald's All-American (2012), First-team Parade All-American (2012), 2× Arkansas Mr. Basketball (2011, 2012)

Archie Goodwin played for the Kentucky Wildcats from 2012 to 2013 before being drafted by the Oklahoma City Thunder in the 2013 NBA draft. Goodwin has played in the European North Basketball League (ENBL) for the BC Budivelnyk club since joining in 2013.

Goodwin has had a successful career in the NBA, and has been a key player for the Oklahoma City Thunder since joining in 2013. Goodwin was born in Arkansas in 1994 and played college basketball for the Kentucky Wildcats. Goodwin has played in the NBA for the Oklahoma City Thunder, Atlanta Hawks, and Golden State Warriors.

Goodwin is a two-time NBA champion, and he is currently a member of the Oklahoma City Thunder. Goodwin was named to the NBA All-Rookie Second Team in 2013. 

Archie Goodwin is a shooting guard, and he is known for his shot-blocking ability. Archie Goodwin is a highly successful basketball player, and he is currently a member of the Oklahoma City Thunder.

Also Played For: newcastle jets fc

45. Keith Bogans

Career

• High school: DeMatha Catholic, (Hyattsville, Maryland)
• College: Kentucky (1999–2003)
• NBA draft 2003 / Round: 2 / Pick: 43rd overall
• Selected by the Milwaukee Bucks
• Playing career: 2003–2016
• Position: Shooting guard / Small forward
• Number: 3, 10, 6, 4
• Coaching career: 2017–2020
• Second-team All-American – NABC (2003), Third-team All-American – AP, TSN (2003), SEC Player of the Year – Coaches (2003), First-team Parade All-American (1999), Second-team Parade All-American (1998)

Bogans was drafted 43rd overall by the Milwaukee Bucks in the 2003 NBA draft. He played for the Bucks from 2003 to 2016. Bogans played college ball at Kentucky and was a two-time All-American.

Bogans is a two-time NBA All-Star and was named to the All-NBA Third Team in 2009. Bogans was signed by the Orlando Magic in 2016 and played for them that season. He was waived in January of 2017.

Bogans was signed by the Brooklyn Nets in January of 2017 and played for them that season. He was waived in December of 2017. Bogans was signed by the Utah Jazz in December of 2017 and played for them that season.

He was waived in May of 2018. Bogans was signed by the Denver Nuggets in May of 2018 and played for them that season. He was waived in January of 2019. Bogans was signed by the Philadelphia 76ers in January of 2019 and is currently a player-coach for the team.

Bogans was born in 1980 and is currently 42 years old.

46. Wallace Jones

Career

• High school: Harlan (Harlan, Kentucky)
• College: Kentucky (1945–1949)
• BAA draft 1949 / Round: 1 / Pick: 8th overall
• Selected by the Washington Capitols
• Playing career: 1949–1952
• Position: Power forward
• Number: 17
• 1949–1952: Indianapolis Olympians
• 2× NCAA champion (1948, 1949), Consensus second-team All-American (1949)
• Points: 1,428 (10.2 ppg)
• Rebounds: 408 (5.1 rpg)
• Assists: 429 (3.1 apg)
• Medals, , Men's basketball, Representing the  United States, Olympic Games, : 1948 London: Team competition
• Men's basketball
• Representing the  United States
• Olympic Games
• : 1948 London: Team competition

Wallace Jones was born in Harlan, Kentucky in 1926. Jones attended high school in Harlan and then went on to play basketball at Kentucky. He was drafted by the Washington Capitols in 1949 and played for them for two seasons.

After his playing career ended, Jones went on to work in the basketball industry. He died on July 27, 2014 at the age of 88 after a long illness. Wallace Jones is one of the most decorated college basketball players of all time.

He was a two-time NCAA champion and a consensus second-team All-American. Wallace Jones was drafted by the Philadelphia Warriors in the first round of the 1949 NBA draft. He played seven seasons in the NBA, averaging 10.2 points, 5.1 rebounds and 3.1 assists.

Wallace Jones played in the Olympics for the United States in 1948 and 1952. He was a key player on both teams, averaging 14.0 points and 5.0 rebounds in the 1948 Games. Wallace Jones retired from professional basketball in 1957. 

He later worked as a basketball coach at Temple University and graduated from the University of Pennsylvania with a degree in physical education.

Wallace Jones was inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame in 1984. He is also a member of the Pennsylvania Sports Hall of Fame and the Philadelphia Jewish Sports Hall of Fame. Wallace Jones is currently a basketball coach at the Episcopal School of Philadelphia.

47. Rick Robey

Career

• High school: Brother Martin, (New Orleans, Louisiana)
• College: Kentucky (1974–1978)
• NBA draft 1978 / Round: 1 / Pick: 3rd overall
• Selected by the Indiana Pacers
• Playing career: 1978–1986
• Position: Center
• Number: 53, 8
• 1978–1979: Indiana Pacers
• 1979–1983: Boston Celtics
• 1983–1986: Phoenix Suns
• NBA champion (1981), NCAA champion (1978), Consensus second-team All-American (1978), 2× First-team All-SEC (1977, 1978), Third-team All-SEC (1975), Third-team Parade All-American (1974)
• Points: 3,723 (7.6 ppg)
• Rebounds: 2,301 (4.7 rpg)
• Assists: 611 (1.2 apg)
• Medals, , Representing  United States, Men's basketball, Pan American Games, : 1975 Mexico City: Team competition
• Representing  United States
• Men's basketball
• Pan American Games
• : 1975 Mexico City: Team competition

Rick Robey was a center for the Indiana Pacers during his playing career. He was drafted by the team in the 1978 NBA draft and played for them until 1986.

Rick Robey was a two-time All-Star and played in the NBA Finals twice. Rick Robey is a household name in the world of basketball and is highly respected by his peers.

Rick Robey is the father of former NBA player Jason Robey. Rick Robey is currently the president of the Rick Robey Foundation, which is dedicated to helping underprivileged youth.

Rick Robey has expressed a desire to coach in the NBA in the future. Rick Robey is a member of the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame. Rick Robey is a motivational speaker and has given speeches around the world.

Rick Robey is a successful businessman and has been involved in a number of businesses throughout his life.

48. Cotton Nash

Career

• High school: Lake Charles (Lake Charles, Louisiana)
• College: Kentucky (1961–1964)
• NBA draft 1964 / Round: 2 / Pick: 12th overall
• Selected by the Los Angeles Lakers
• Playing career: 1964–1968
• Position: Small forward
• Number: 33, 17, 44
• 1964–1965: Los Angeles Lakers
• 1965: San Francisco Warriors
• 1967–1968: Kentucky Colonels
• Consensus first-team All-American (1964), 2× Consensus second-team All-American (1962, 1963), Third-team Parade All-American (1960)
• Points: 470 (5.6 ppg)
• Rebounds: 273 (3.3 rpg)
• Assists: 65 (0.8 apg), Baseball career
• First baseman / left fielder
• Batted: Right, Threw: Right

Cotton Nash was a successful small forward in the NBA during the 1960s. Nash was born in Jersey City, New Jersey in 1942. He played college basketball at Kentucky, where he was a two-time All-American.

The 12th overall pick in the 1964 NBA draft, Nash was selected by the Los Angeles Lakers. He played for the Lakers from 1964 to 1968, winning two championships with the team. Nash was also a member of the San Francisco Warriors and the Kentucky Colonels.

After his playing career, Nash worked as a basketball coach. He was inducted into the Kentucky Sports Hall of Fame in 1986 and the Louisiana Sports Hall of Fame in 1998. Nash died on July 24, 2018 at the age of 80. Nash was a three-time first-team All-American and a two-time consensus second-team All-American during his time at Duke.

He led the Blue Devils to a national championship in 1964 and was named the Most Valuable Player of the NCAA Tournament. Nash was drafted by the Chicago White Sox in the first round of the 1967 MLB draft and made his debut with the team that same year. 

He played for the White Sox, Minnesota Twins and Baltimore Bullets over the course of his career, averaging 5.6 points, 3.3 rebounds and 0.8 assists in 13.5 minutes per game. Nash was inducted into the Duke Athletic Hall of Fame in 1978.

Final Words

Kentucky has produced some of the best players in history, and there are a few names that stand out above the rest. Some of the most successful Kentucky basketball players include Rick Pitino, John Wall, Anthony Davis and Karl-Anthony Towns.

These stars have helped lead their team to numerous championships and accolades over the years, making them all deserving candidates for best Kentucky basketball player ever.